Derrick Alston ‘12_Graphic Design
Title
TBD
Ideals of efficiency and
productivity have increased the development and utilization of the machine in
Twenty-first century America. The machine, defined as an apparatus applying
mechanical power to perform a particular task, has been established as a way of
creating solutions at a more rapid rate than can be accomplished by people
alone. This mechanistic process of labor has increased the level at which
humans can create, manufacture and distribute products and information.
However, the proficiency of this apparatus has replaced much of the need for
human production, and has eliminated the creativity and craftsmanship that come
from the humanistic creation process. By utilizing technology to create a more
effective means of production, man has also erased the need for physical human
production. The relationship of these entities has created a society that is
dominated by a reliance on the machine, but also the need for human ingenuity
and innovation. My piece investigates the connection of these two entities and
the forms that can result from their separate creation methodologies.
The machine has found its way
into the field of graphic design and influences every aspect of human creation,
which is an idea that will be communicated to all that observe and utilize my
work. The mechanistic methodology of image creation is represented through the presentation
of a harmonograph, a mechanical apparatus that employs pendulums to create a
geometric image. Upon utilizing the harmonograph the user initiates image
creation through the use of a designed apparatus. The user has no control over
the image that is created by the machine, but the speed, efficiency and ease of
production are represented through production. Through the use of metal, wood
and industrialized materials my work reinforces the cold, lifeless creation
that takes place in the assembly line of mechanized America.
The relationship of
mechanistic and humanistic production is further examined by juxtaposing the
harmonograph apparatus with a more human method of production. The presentation
of a platform that allows the viewer to create an image free from restrictions,
communicates the difference of opposing creation methodologies. When given the
opportunity to produce an image through common, humanistic means, how does the
participant respond? This process allows the viewer to have much more control
over the final image, but may not necessarily have the same amount of speed or
efficient production that would be found in the harmograph methodology. The
relationship of mechanistic and humanistic production is investigated, but this
process also brings to mind the idea of efficiency and how it relates to the creation
of art. The participants experience parallels that are often drawn between the
processes of fine and applied arts. In conclusion, the mechanistic nature of
society and the effectual results on the production methods of mankind are
examined through my representation of creation methodologies of both entities.
Derrick Alston